Zuclopenthixol

About Zuclopenthixol

This belongs to the group of medicines known as neuroleptics.

Zuclopenthixol is used to treat mental illness with symptoms such as hearing, seeing or sensing things that are not there, loss of energy, thought disturbances, difficulties communicating with others, worry, depression and overcoming feelings of wanting to be alone as well as other symptoms of schizophrenia. It is also useful in treating agitation and aggressive or hostile behaviour.

Zuclopenthixol is available in tablet and injection form.

It is also sometimes known as: Clopixol. You may notice the use of any of these names on the packaging of your medicine.

Before Taking Zuclopenthixol

Before taking zuclopenthixol make sure your doctor or pharmacist knows:

• if you are pregnant, trying for a baby or breast-feeding
• if you suffer from any heart problems
• if you suffer from kidney, liver or breathing problems
• if you have ever had jaundice
• if you suffer from Parkinson's disease or myasthenia gravis (a muscle weakening disease) or depression
• if you suffer from epilepsy, porphyria (a blood disorder), phaeochromocytoma (a growth on the adrenal glands), an under active thyroid gland or prostate problems
• if you suffer from glaucoma
• if you have ever had an allergic reaction to this or any other medicine
• if you are taking any other medicines, including those available to buy without a prescription, herbal and complementary medicines

How to Take Zuclopenthixol

• Always read the manufacture’s information leaflet, if possible, before beginning treatment.
• Take zuclopenthixol exactly as directed by your doctor.
• Try to get into the habit of taking zuclopenthixol at the same times each day to avoid missing any doses.
• You may have to take zuclopenthixol for several weeks before you feel the full effect.
• Do not stop taking zuclopenthixol without first speaking with your doctor. Your doctor will probably want to reduce the dose you are taking gradually, as stopping treatment suddenly can cause complications.
• Never take more than the prescribed dose. If you suspect that you or someone else has taken an overdose of zuclopenthixol contact your doctor or go to the accident and emergency department of your local hospital at once. Always take the container with you, if possible, even if it is empty.
• This medicine is for you. Never give it to others even if their condition appears to be the same as yours.

Getting the most from your treatment

• Before taking any ‘over-the-counter’ medicines, check with your pharmacist which medicines are safe to take alongside zuclopenthixol.
• Keep your regular appointments with your doctor so your progress can be checked.
• Zuclopenthixol can cause drowsiness, dizziness and blurred vision. Make sure you know how you react to this medicine before driving, operating machinery or doing any other jobs which could be dangerous if you were not fully alert or able to see properly.
• Do not drink alcohol while you are taking zuclopenthixol as it will increase the feeling of drowsiness. If you do drink alcohol, drink only in moderation and be aware of its effects on you.
• Before having any surgery, including dental or emergency treatment, tell the surgeon, doctor or dentist that you are taking zuclopenthixol.
• Zuclopenthixol can occasionally cause dry mouth. If you experience this, try chewing sugar-free gum, sucking sugar-free sweets or pieces of ice. If dry mouth becomes a problem speak with your doctor or pharmacist.
• Zuclopenthixol can cause some people's skin to become more sensitive to sunlight than it usually is. Try to avoid the sun and sunbeds until you know how your skin reacts or use a suncream higher than factor 15.

Can Zuclopenthixol cause problems?

Along with their useful effects all medicines can cause unwanted side effects, which usually improve as your body adjusts to the new medicine. Speak with your doctor if any of the following side effects continue or become troublesome.

Shakiness, abnormal face and body movements, restlessness, uncontrollable movements of the tongue face and jaw, drowsiness, mood changes, insomnia (trouble sleeping), dizziness, headache, confusion, constipation, diarrhoea, tummy ache, a stuffy nose, dry mouth, problems urinating (passing water), blurred vision, a fast or thumping heartbeat, breast problems, sexual problems, weight gain or weight loss, skin rashes, jaundice (yellowing of the skin and whites of the eyes), purple tint to the skin and eyes, changes in menstruation (periods) or a need to urinate (pass water) more often.

IMPORTANT: If you experience 'flu like' symptoms such as stiffness, high temperature, abnormal paleness, leaking bladder and a racing heartbeat contact your doctor immediately.

If you experience any other worrying symptoms, which you think may be due to this medicine, discuss them with your doctor or pharmacist.

How to store Zuclopenthixol

• Keep all medicines out of the reach of children.
• Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct heat and light.
• Never keep out of date or unwanted medicines. Discard them safely out of the reach of children or take them to your local pharmacist who will dispose of them for you.

© EMIS and Cegedim Pharmacy Services Ltd 2005   Updated: 10/11/2003